Neck pain can show up in different ways, such as stiffness, soreness, or aching in the neck area. It might also cause headaches, shoulder pain, or trouble moving your head.
Some of the common causes of neck pain:
Muscle Strain: Overusing or straining the neck muscles can lead to pain. This can happen from things like bad posture, sleeping in an awkward position, or spending too much time hunched over a computer or phone.
Whiplash: A sudden jerking motion, like in a car accident, can cause the neck to whip back and forth. This can injure the muscles and ligaments, leading to neck pain.
Degenerative disc disease: As we age, the cushiony discs between our neck bones can wear down. This can cause pain, stiffness, and loss of motion in the neck.
Herniated disc: Sometimes, a disc in the neck can push out of its normal spot and press on nearby nerves. This can cause pain, numbness, or weakness in the neck, shoulders, or arms.
Arthritis: Neck pain can be caused by arthritis, which is when the joints in the neck become inflamed and worn down over time. This can lead to stiffness, swelling, and discomfort in the neck area.